An overview of birth control pills

Birth control pills can be classified as hormonal contraceptives that are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. These pills are small tablets that you need to swallow each day as directed by the doctor. Most pills have a cycle of 21 days during which you have to take pills continuously. After this, you need to stop taking these pills for 7 days during which you can have your periods. Let us understand in detail how these pills work.

How do contraceptive pills work?
Most pills that are available on the market contain a synthetic version of naturally occurring female hormones. These pills work by over riding the menstrual cycle. Synthetic hormones present in the pill suppress the function of pituitary gland and this stops the growth and spread of eggs from the ovaries. Further these pills trick the body into believing that ovulation has already occurred.

Are these pills really effective?
The pill is one of the most effective methods of staying away from pregnancy. If taken in the right manner, they are around 95% effective. If you want to get the best results, you need to use the pill as directed by your doctor. Use only one pill a day and ensure that you take it at the same time everyday. Taking it at the same time will allow your body to adjust to the daily dose of hormones and make internal changes accordingly. Suffering from flu, diarrhoea and vomiting can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.

If you are suffering from any of these health conditions or if you wish to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, you should use latex condoms.  This will lessen your chances of contracting an STD. Apart from protecting you against a pregnancy, these pills can help you in various ways. The benefits of birth control pills other than preventing pregnancy are as follows:

Regular periods

It has been observed that oral contraceptives help in regulation of the menstrual cycle and cause lighter periods. These pills also reduce menstrual cramps and pain associated with monthly periods.

Acne removal

Use of contraceptive pill has shown that acne is improved or removed depending on the skin type. While it can take a few months to show good results, it does work in most cases.
 
Many different types of contraceptive pills are available on the market and this makes it really difficult to choose between them and take the right one. Only a good doctor can prescribe contraceptive pills and that too after thorough examination of your health and medical history. Some reputed pills such as Yasmin, Dianette and Cerazette are used by millions of women all over the world for preventing pregnancy. Along with the brand of the pill, the dosage is also an important factor to be considered before using it. Do not start using any contraceptive pill by yourself. Consult a doctor before doing so. Ensure that you complete the whole course as prescribed by the doctor. Taking more than one pill per day can increase the risk of side effects.